Adi works closely with his wife at Downtown Circle Convenience & Deli — a store they opened on West Federal Street in downtown Youngstown last year.

Two of his daughters, who attend Youngstown State University, help with day-to-day operations.

Although Adi’s mother does not live in Youngstown, he frequently asks her for business advice and recipes for the store’s popular Mediterranean-style cooking.

“My mom was my main teacher,” Adi said, smiling. “Every time that I wanted to do something new, I’d send her an email and I’d tell her, ‘What is the best recipe to do?’ Even though I know, I always need her opinion.”

Working together keeps the family tight-knit, but Adi has found a family among Youngstown residents as well.

He has his regular customers who have been supportive of the business since its opening last summer.

“I’ve seen people just cleaning up outside, literally cleaning up trash and cleaning up things just to be supportive,” he said. “That’s beautiful, in my opinion.”

Adi said he hopes his newest business venture will produce the same reaction from residents.

Adi has begun renovating the former R&S Market near the corner of Elm Street and Madison Avenue for a new market, University Circle.